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Category Archives: Announcements

Managing Salt Intake for Better Health 

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salt awareness

Salt, also known as sodium chloride, is an essential mineral that plays a crucial role in our body’s functions.

Salt helps regulate fluid balance, muscle contractions, and nerve impulses. However, excessive salt intake can have negative effects on our health. This blog explores the effects of salt on the body, why it’s important to manage salt intake, alternatives to salt for better health, and tips to reduce salt in the diet.

Salts’ effect on the body
Salt is a key component of our body’s fluids, and it helps regulate the balance of fluids inside and outside our cells. When we consume salt, it’s broken down into sodium and chloride ions, which are absorbed into our bloodstream. Sodium is an essential electrolyte that helps regulate fluid balance, muscle contractions, and nerve impulses, while chloride is important for maintaining the acidity of our stomachs.

Why we need to manage salt intake
According to the World Health Organisation, the recommended daily intake of sodium for adults is less than 2,000 mg, or 5 grams of salt. However, the average Australian consumes nearly double this amount, often without realising it. Many processed and packaged foods are high in sodium, and salt can sneak into our diets without us even adding any to our meals.
Managing salt intake is important for maintaining good health and preventing chronic diseases. High sodium intake is linked to high blood pressure, which can increase the risk of heart disease, stroke, and cause fluid retention, which can lead to swelling. By reducing salt intake, we can lower blood pressure, reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke, and improve overall health.

Alternatives to salt for better health
While salt is a key ingredient in many recipes, there are several alternatives that can be used to add flavour without adding sodium. Herbs and spices, such as garlic, ginger, and cumin, can add flavour and aroma to dishes without adding salt. Lemon juice and vinegar can also be used to add tanginess and flavour to foods.

Tips to reduce salt in your diet
• Read food labels: Check the sodium content of packaged and processed foods before buying them. Choose low-sodium or no-sodium options when possible.
• Use herbs and spices: Experiment with different herbs and spices to add flavour to dishes without adding salt.
• Cook at home: When cooking at home, use fresh ingredients and reduce the amount of salt used in recipes.
• Eating out at restaurants can contribute to excessive salt intake, so avoid the very salty options and choose the lower sodium items on the menu.
• Be mindful of condiments: Condiments, such as soy sauce, ketchup, and salad dressings, can be high in sodium. Choose low-sodium options when possible.

Reducing your salt intake doesn’t have to mean bland meals and you can stop salt sneaking into your diet and still enjoy nourishing and satisfying food.

If you are struggling to balance your salt intake and would like some more practical strategies, dietitians can assess your unique needs and help you reach your health goals with menu and meal planning that keep your food delicious and meal preparation easy.

 

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An innovative approach to delivering Allied Healthcare to remote WA

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Kojonup: An innovative approach to delivering Allied Healthcare to remote WA

Working together as an integrated team, Empower Healthcare clinicians and Residential Aged Care Facility Springhaven relished the opportunity of in-person collaboration to care for residents despite their remote location.

Kojonup is a town situated 250km Southeast of Perth with a population of little over 1000. Therefore it’s not surprising that the town’s only aged care facility struggles to procure Allied Health locally in order to meet compliance and care standards.

In total WA has only 22 Speech Pathologists per 100,000 of population, and nationally and only 17 per 100,000 in remote regions.

With demand far outstripping the number of allied health clinicians in remote and metropolitan WA areas, Springhaven Lodge in Kojonup was one such facility.

Springhaven Lodge contacted Empower Healthcare West Perth office for Dietetic, Speech Pathology and Occupational Therapy services. The challenge of providing these services in the most cost-effective, efficient and sustainable way fell to the team of our Perth based clinicians who understood that an innovative approach to service delivery would be needed.

Empowers interdisciplinary team of Speech Pathologist, Dietitian and OT’s set about developing an understanding of the unique requirements of the facility. They brainstormed the best method of delivering high quality healthcare and the best possible outcomes for the residents and staff. In collaboration with the facility manager, it was decided that a combination of telehealth and in-person assessment, intervention and training was the best approach.

A well planned and outcomes-based trip was organised for the team, who understood that efficiency and efficacy were key when time is limited. During their first day at Springhaven, the clinicians conducted menu audits, individual and process assessments, IDDSI training and implementation and staff training.

 

Working together as an integrated team, Empower and Springhaven staff relished the opportunity of in-person collaborative care for residents and implementing sustainable interventions and care plans. With ongoing bespoke telehealth and onsite support, Springhaven residents are now receiving the high-quality care they deserve.

We look forward to a building relationship with Springhaven and its residents and bringing this approach to other remote Residential Aged Care facilities in the future.

 

 

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In Profile with Physio/Osteo Team Leader Nick

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Meet Empower Physio/Osteo Team Leader Nick

Nick has been with Empower for 3 years, supporting clients and staff through the most difficult period of the pandemic as a Team Leader in Residential Aged Care (RAC) and as Regional Manager of Aged Care services. Nick now brings his extensive knowledge and experience to a new role as Home Care Team Leader.

Nick began his physiotherapy career in New Zealand, graduating from the University of Otago in 2012. Within a year, he had moved to central Queensland to work as a physiotherapist in a RAC facility, delivering and managing physiotherapy services. Nick honed his leadership skills during Tropical Cyclone Marcia as a member of the Emergency Response Team, where he was responsible for emergency planning and the care and management of residents requiring complex care during evacuation.

After moving to Melbourne in 2016, Nick worked in RAC and Home Care, before joining Empower in 2020. Nick is deeply committed to the well-being of the clients and the clinicians he supports, facilitating and demonstrating high quality healthcare delivery and the best outcomes possible.

Of his work, Nick says,

As physiotherapists who work with people in their homes, we are in the privileged position of getting to know our clients at a personal level which allows us to treat them holistically. I want to ensure that sessions are effective in helping clients achieve their goals, but also enjoyable and something my clients look forward to.

In his spare time, Nick enjoys spending time with his precious baby daughter and wife.

 

Our Values

 

 

 

 

 

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Our Physiotherapy retention rates benefit everyone

Physio retention rates

Retaining talented employees is crucial for any business, but it’s especially important in the healthcare industry where high-quality care depends on experienced and dedicated clinicians.

Empower Healthcare has achieved a remarkable Physiotherapy retention rate of nearly 80%!

This impressive statistic is a testament to our commitment to creating a positive work environment and providing our employees with the support they need to thrive in their careers.

At Empower we strive to provide opportunities for professional development and a positive and supportive work culture. Our physiotherapists report feeling valued, fulfilled, and empowered in their roles, which has led to a high level of job satisfaction. In fact, our anonymous 2022 staff engagement survey found that 93% of our people would recommend Empower Healthcare as a good place to work.

 

In addition to benefiting the employees themselves, this high retention rate also translates to better care for patients. With experienced physiotherapists staying on the job, patients can expect consistent and effective treatment, with therapists they know and trust.

The company’s leadership is thrilled with this news, and are already looking ahead to the future.

People and Culture Manager Lilian Ghanem says

“The 80% physiotherapist retention rate is a true success story for our company, and we look forward to delivering the best outcomes for our clients and clinicians in 2023”!

We are set to expand leadership opportunities and roles for clinicians and increase the number of in-person professional development and training sessions, while continuing to provide a supportive environment that encourages growth and development for all employees.

 

 

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Trust your Gut – a guide to help you eat your way to wellness

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 Gut Health

The key to a healthier life may have been inside us all along!

It seems not long ago that talking about tummies and how they worked was considered an embarrassment. Nowadays we know better. As far from being merely a tube carrying the forgotten remnants of meals to their exit point, the gut is emerging as playing a vital role in wellbeing and health. From mood regulation to bone health, our guts are responsible for all sorts of important bodily and mental functions and are the undervalued superheroes of the digestive system.

February is gut health month and along with some great resources from our friends at Dietitian Connection Australia, here are some of Empower Healthcare’s top tips for improved gut health.

Eat Well

Focus on consuming a varied diet that doesn’t exclude entire food groups but rather aims to maximise good nutrition. A large body of evidence points to diets that are based on fruit, vegetables, pulses, whole grains, seeds, tubers, nuts and dried fruit as being best for our guts and bodies in general.

Top Tip: Try increasing your veggie and fruit intake by grating carrot into pasta sauce or some apple into your morning porridge.

Move Well

We all know that exercise is good for our muscles and hearts, but it is also great for our guts. The rhythmic movement of walking, for instance, assists our guts to do their work. Exercise is also a great way to manage stress, which has a negative effect on gut health.

Top Tip: Start where you are. There’s no need for expensive gym memberships and equipment, moving more may mean increasing your daily step count with a short walk, adding a flight of stairs to your routine, or completing seated exercises in the comfort of your own living room.

Rest Well

Our guts do some of their best work while we are sleeping. During the night, the tissues in this area grow, repair, and rebuild themselves. Good gut health also aids good sleep by releasing chemicals that regulate our sleep and wake cycle. So it’s a win-win!

Top Tip: Eat the last meal of the day early, at least 3 hours before bedtime, to allow your digestive system to work it’s magic before you try to sleep.

Small changes made consistently can add up to big results over time and help your gut do it’s important work. If you, your client or someone you care for is struggling with tummy trouble that is proving tricky to resolve, our Empower Dietitians can assist. They can develop meal plans that help heal and restore gut function and unlock vitality and well-being at all life stages.

 

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Living life to the full after Ostomy surgery

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How Empower Nurses and Dietitians can help with Ostomy management

 

Nurses and Ostomy Care

While many people with a stoma or ostomy can independently care for themselves, there are times when some extra help is required. This may be when adjusting to living with an ostomy, when experiencing illness or when managing additional health conditions or disability. Empower nurses provide general ostomy management and support for people who need it. They are fully equipped for ostomy care and carry emergency kits.

As part of delivering high quality nursing services, our Nurses provide:
• Ostomy bag changes
• Assessment of stoma and skin health
• General assessment of health, including monitoring for digestive problems
• Referral to Stomal Therapists if complex care is required.

 

Dietitians and Ostomy Care

It is possible for people with an ostomy to eat a full and satisfying range of foods. In fact, eating real food after surgery can help the digestive system to begin functioning again. However, learning what foods are easiest to digest, how a person’s body is responding to certain foods and how to maintain good nutrition following surgery can require the input of a Dietitian.

Dietitians can help people:
• Manage low appetite following surgery
• Ensure adequate nutrition and energy levels
• Develop meal plans that are enjoyable and nutritious
• Make dietary adjustments when necessary
• Monitor dietary intake, digestive health and stoma output
• Manage additional health conditions, like diabetes and hypertension
• Choose and use supplementation appropriately.

For in-home, professional care while recovering from surgery, living with a chronic condition or when managing life’s unexpected health challenges, let Empower take care of your health needs.

Click to read more about our Nursing and Dietetic Services

Catheter management

Medication management

Wound care

Nutrition and the Immune System

 

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Empower selected to deliver group therapy program to RAC facilities

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Empower Healthcare is commissioned by the North Western Melbourne Primary Health Network (NWMPHN) to deliver group therapy to RAC facilities.

 

What is the NWMPHN?

The NWMPHN is a government funded primary health network that supports health providers and organisations in the North and West of Melbourne. The aim is to deliver efficient, effective and accessible care. NWMPHN is operated by Melbourne Primary Care Network (PHN).

What service does Empower provide in partnership with NWMPHN?

Empower clinicians provide evidence backed falls prevention group therapy classes based on the Sunbeam Program. under this PHN funding. This Australian developed exercise intervention aims to improve the physical functioning of those most at risk of deconditioning and falls during COVID-19 restrictions.

NWMPHN commissioned multiple allied health providers to deliver group therapy programs to these eligible RACFs in 2021-2022, aiming to improve physical function of residents at risk of deconditioning due to COVID-19 restrictions.

During the pandemic, our clinicians continued to work with the people most affected by isolation due to restricted freedom of movement and reduced services across the sector. Restrictions and policies limited the implementation of group therapy and we saw the negative effects that had on the residents. We know how important exercise is and were proud to be able to bring this great program to more residents across Melbourne.

NWMPHN explains the expected outcomes for the many stakeholders:
RACF residents:
  • increased access to allied health services
  • improved overall health outcomes due to physical reconditioning
  • more opportunities for social interaction and engagement.
RACFs:
  • improved health outcomes and experiences for residents
  • access to group therapy for residents at no cost
  • increased awareness and access to allied health services within their facility
  • strengthened relationships with allied health providers.
 Allied Health providers:
  • increased capacity to deliver evidence-based group therapy programs to older adult populations
  • opportunity to lead group therapy and contribute towards better health outcomes for RACF residents
  • collection and contribution of robust data that can add to the evidence base and help inform future allied health funding models
  • strengthened relationships with RACFs.

 Striving for Excellence

Empower is dedicated to delivering high quality healthcare services and meaningful outcomes in our community. Our skilled and committed clinicians are excited to continue their mission to improve the lives of aged care residents in partnership with NWMPHN and the Australian Department of Health and Aged Care.

Get in touch if you are interested in achieving fantastic outcomes through group therapy for your residents.

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Exercise matters

Get back into movement with Physios and Osteos

 

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Staying healthy and injury free this festive season – TOP TIPS

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Stay healthy and injury free this summer by following some simple tips from our clinicians

Stay Active

No need for gyms and studios – going for walks, bike rides or swims are all great ways to stay active for the whole family.

Top Tip: Try to get moving early in the day, before the heat and festivities reach a fever pitch.

Take care of your back

Lifting boxes of gifts, preparing big meals and decorating are all part of many people’s plans but put our bodies in positions and under strains that we may not be used to. Avoid back aches and pains ruining your holiday by taking care of your posture and spine.

Top Tip: Carry heavy loads close to your body and lift them by bending your knees, not your back.

Avoid falls

Many emergency rooms see an uptick in injuries in early January after December mishaps. Changes in routine and unfamiliar surroundings increase the risk of trips and falls. Limiting alcohol consumption, keeping living areas clutter free and asking for help when feeling unsteady can help to reduce the chances of a fall.

Top Tip: Choosing well-fitted and supportive footwear can help to prevent trips and slips.

Indulge in moderation

Sharing great food is a big part of most Australian Christmas celebrations. From pavlovas and prawns to choccies and cheeses, many of us will be indulging in delicious treats over the next few weeks. Make sure that you are still getting enough nutrients by getting 5 serves of vegetables and fruit a day.

Top Tip: Have a healthy snack before heading out for meals.

Stay hydrated

As the weather warms up, it is important to keep hydrated by increasing your water intake. Listening to your body’s thirst cues is the best way to ensure you are drinking enough.

Top Tip: Always make sure you have water with you when exercising, especially in warmer weather.

Medication management

Don’t let changes in routine mean missing important medication. Fill scripts before going away or before public holidays to avoid running out. If you are unsure, contact your Home Care nurse, GP or pharmacy to help you plan for the weeks ahead.

Top Tip: Set an alarm to help you stick to your routine.

Whether you are planning a trip, celebrating with family or having a quiet time at home, Empower Healthcare is here for you throughout December and January. Get 2024 off to a healthy start by contacting our helpful Community Support team today or make a referral via the links.

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Living at home longer…and better

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Living at home longer

Living at home longer…and better. How Physiotherapy can help your clients live as independently and actively as possible.

More Australians are opting to stay in their homes in later life, needing the support of Home Care packages to assist them to live in the place most familiar to them.

The Royal Commission into Aged Care found that Australians of all ages want to be assisted to live independently in their own home during their retirement years rather than having to go to an aged care facility. In fact, only 25% of older people would prefer to live in a facility should they need care.

only 25% of older people would prefer to live in a facility should they need care

So why do older people move into residential facilities?

Moving into a residential aged care (RAC) facility is often a complicated and an emotive decision that usually has more than one deciding factor. However, studies indicate that there are some common reasons that result in a move into residential facilities.

• History of a recent fall
• Recent hospitalisation for illness
• Dependence on others for activities of daily living
• Cognitive impairment
• Age older than 85
• Bereavement and loneliness
• Malnutrition
• Polypharmacy

How can Physio help your clients live independently for longer?

Physiotherapists assess and directly manage some of the risk factors that would otherwise result in people being admitted to RAC facilities. Using evidence backed interventions, physios can improve the function, safety and quality of life of clients who want to stay at home by providing:

• Falls Prevention programs and strategies
• Education for clients and care givers
• Risk reduction
• Functional exercise therapy
• Walking programs
• Rehabilitation after injury and hospitilasation
• Mobility aid prescription
• Referral to other health care clinicians when necessary.

There are less obvious ways that high-quality physiotherapy helps mitigate the causes of loss of independence at home, like:

• Exercise improves appetite (and reduces constipation)
• Activity can improve cognition
• Addressing the causes of pain means less reliance on pain medication
• Functional exercise therapy can directly target and improve ADL performance
• Care giver and family education and support
• Reducing the incidence of back pain for caregivers through demonstrating good manual handling techniques.
• Improving confidence to participate in social activities

Who else can help?

  • Occupational Therapists for home adaptions, assistive device prescription and functional therapeutic interventions.
  • Podiatrists for foot care and shoe fittings and recommendations, both of which are vital for safe mobility.
  • Nurses ensure good medication management, wound care and health monitoring.
  • Dieticians preventing and managing malnutrition in older people.
  • Massage therapists assist with pain management and therapeutic touch.
  • Allied Health assistants provide cost-effective care, supported by clinicians.
  • Osteopaths work with clients to manage pain and injury to holistically improve the health and vitality of older people at home.

Evidence shows that home and community-based Physiotherapy led exercise programs improve function in older adults living in the community, including those with cognitive impairment.

The best home based Physiotherapy places the needs and goals of the client at the core. With holistic, functional interventions that enable our clients to maximise well-being, safety and vitality while living life on their own terms.

 

Read more about The Benefits of Hydrotherapy

Read more about Why Exercise Matters

 

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Help! When to call the Podiatrist for your toenails

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Podiatry toes
It’s easy to forget about our toes and toenails, tucked away in shoes and socks or coated in nail polish that may be hiding an underlying problem. Even if you realise there may be something going on with them, they are hard to reach and take care of.

Caregivers and pedicurists can help with basic nail care, but how do we know when the time has come to call in the professionals?

Here are a few things that can indicate the need for a consultation with a podiatrist:

– If your nails are discolored
– When nails become thickened or thinner than usual
– If the nail begins to lift
– If the area around your nail has become red or swollen
– Pain or bleeding of the nail or nail bed
– If there is a loss of sensation in the feet
– When you develop any sores or ulcers on the toes

How can a Podiatrist help?

A podiatrist will perform a full assessment of your feet to diagnose the problem and any underlying causes.
They can then treat many of the conditions that cause toe and foot pain and dysfunction along with ongoing management for chronic foot and toe problems.

What can you do at home to keep nails healthy?

– Keep your nails trimmed by cutting them straight across, not too short
– Clean and dry your feet thoroughly every day
– Expose your feet to fresh air
– Check your toes and feet for redness, discoloration, or sores
– Wear socks that are moisture wicking
– Ensure that shoes are the right size

Podiatrists know the importance of feet and toes and want to ensure yours keep stepping, dancing, and jumping at all stages of life. Take good care of your feet with Empower Podiatrists – they get you where you need to go.

 

Read more about Healthy Feet in Falls Prevention

Read more about Diabetic Vascular Foot Assessments

 

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